The Bridal Salon Shopping Tips You Need to Know

Who's ready to say yes to the dress? If you're a bride-to-be, chances are, you're ready to get straight to a bridal salon and try on some gorgeous wedding dresses. Hey, we don't blame you! But before you arrive at your much-anticipated appointment, we've got a few tips on how to make the absolute most of it and walk away with the dress of your dreams while having fun in the process.

Do your research first. Before you even get to your appointment, Co-Owner of Kleinfeld Mara Urshel recommends beginning your dress search by browsing bridal gown photos online and in magazines (hello Pinterest board!). "It will be helpful to your bridal consultant if you share what you love and what you hate about certain styles," she says. However, once you get there it's equally as important to keep an open mind. Because sometimes what you love in pictures doesn't always translate to your body type or real life.

Set an all-inclusive budget. By that, we mean you have to factor every single dress and accessory cost, including taxes, into your max amount. "At Kleinfeld, we like to remind brides to set an honest budget and be sure it includes alterations, a veil and undergarments," explains Urshel. Sometimes the accessories can actually add up to more than the gown, she notes.

Don't take too many guests with you.Grace Loves Lace Founder and Creative Director, Megan Ziems, strongly encourages brides to bring 1-3 people max with them to their bridal salon appointment. "You really need someone who knows you and your style, however, having too many opinions can make you even more confused," she points out.

Be open to wearing a ceremony gown and a reception gown. Ziems finds most brides come down to two favorite looks: one that's more polished and classic and the other that is really fun and adventurous. "It's your day! Make the most of it and do both." That is, if your aforementioned budget allows for it.

Rock the right undergarments. Don't forget that during your bridal appointment, you will be undressing in front of a bridal consultant and possibly your friends and family, says Urshel. "You should wear the proper undergarments, which you may also consider wearing on your wedding day, such as a strapless bra or shapewear." And the right underwear is a must too. "Think skin colored and sucking you in in all the right places," advises Ziems.

Believe in your beauty. Confidence really is key to a smooth and successful dress appointment. Know that you're beautiful, and go ahead and fan out on yourself, suggests Ziems. "A bride who is comfortable and confident in her own skin has already nailed it." And we couldn't agree more!

Have fun! Last but certainly not least, enjoy yourself! You're buying a freaking wedding dress, after all, so don't be so "serious" about it, says Ziems. "Let the salon and your consultant be the ones to take care of the serious side of things once you've chosen." Your main goal should be to just have fun.